On Wednesday, March 8, 2023, police were dispatched to Benjamin Franklin Plumbing & Heating – 464 Running Pump Rd. for a fire, as well as damage to multiple vehicles, that had occurred outside on the property during the overnight hours. The investigation revealed that multiple fires had been set outside of the building. This was subsequently confirmed by a PA State Police Fire Marshal. Additionally, (25) tires on ten different vehicles owned by the business had been punctured. As a result of the investigation, JOHN DEREK HAYS (36) of Akron, PA, a former employee of the company who was terminated on March 6, 2023, was identified as the suspect. Later on March 8, 2023, charges were filed and an arrest warrant was issued for HAYS for the following offenses: (3) counts of Arson (F2); (1) count of Burglary (F2); (3) counts of Causing or Risking a Catastrophe (F3); (1) count of Criminal Mischief (F3); (2) counts of Possession of Instrument of Crime (M1); and (2) counts of Criminal Trespass (M3).

HAYS was later taken into custody on the outstanding arrest warrant at his home in Akron, PA by West Earl Twp. Police at approximately 0512hrs on Thursday, March 9, 2023. This was after another fire was reported to police at 0454hrs on the same date at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing & Heating. That incident, which involved (2) vehicles owned by the business being set on fire and destroyed, is still under investigation by East Hempfield Twp. Police and the PA State Police Fire Marshal.

JOHN DEREK HAYS is presumed innocent.